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MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. — A Carteret County organization that helps people with mental illness is dramatically cutting back their service hours.

Funding cuts have forced the Atlantic House in Morehead City to be open only on Wednesdays instead of daily. Glenda Self, the organization's director, said the Atlantic House is transforming itself with the ultimate goal to be self sustaining and to once again offer services.

"We're going to operate as a drop in center one day a week and we're going to look at becoming a viable business in the community. So, we're looking at establishing a thrift store where the members will assist," said Self.

The organization was started in 1989 and has helped hundreds of people with tasks such as getting a GED, finding work, or developing social skills. Around 36 members a day would visit the Atlantic House and interact with other members or seek help from volunteers and staff.

The organization's advisory board chair, Dr. Anne Rivers, said the Atlantic House has an important mission.

"I've watched what's happened to people over the years. It's just been amazing. I've known people who were totally unable to function really, who now are productive members of society," said Rivers.

The Atlantic House thrift store will open sometime in the fall of 2012 and it will be located inside the headquarters at 3900 Bridges Street in Morehead City.